The Canterbury Plains are the finest place in New Zealand for Hot Air Ballooning. Nestled well inland, the prevailing breeze from the Southern Alps gently ushers flights out across the Plains, which are renowned for the many varieties of arable crops and sheep, deer, beef, dairy cattle, even llama, alpacas, and ostriches!
Based in Methven, an hour's drive from Christchurch, where fine day views of the entire Canterbury Plains (a full 300km panorama) include pristine Mt Cook (Aoraki) and National Park mountains. Marvellous views abound of the Rakaia River, one of the world's finest braided river systems.
Flights are generally flown around day-break, when air conditions are traditionally clear, calm, cool and stable. Following a detailed flight briefing, you will be invited to assist the pilot and crew to prepare the balloon for flight. Once aboard the wicker basket, your magical flight begins.
The successful completion of the flight is celebrated with a champagne-styled buffet picnic breakfast, generally served by a suitably attired waiter with a silver tray!
